Common interface architecture for horizontal directional drilling machines and walk-over guidance systems
US7737863B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 15, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jun 15, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B47/0232
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A system and method of interfacing a drilling machine with one of a number of different walk-over guidance systems involves receiving an ID signal from a particular walk-over guidance system selected for use with the drilling machine. A protocol library associated with the particular walk-over guidance system is accessed in response to the ID signal. The protocol library is used to effect communication between the particular walk-over guidance system and a control system of the drilling machine during cooperative use of the particular walk-over guidance system and drilling machine. Using the protocol library involves converting, as prescribed by the protocol library, locator signals received from the particular walk-over guidance system from a locator protocol to a common protocol used by the control system of the drilling machine. Locator and drilling machine data of various types can be presented to a drilling machine operator via an on-board display.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.